Summary & Overview
CPT 74713: Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging
CPT code 74713 denotes fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a diagnostic imaging service that creates detailed three-dimensional views of the developing fetus, placenta, and maternal pelvis to identify structural abnormalities during gestation. Fetal MRI is increasingly used as an adjunct to prenatal ultrasound when additional anatomic detail is required for diagnosis, care planning, or perinatal counseling. Nationally, this procedure matters because it concentrates advanced imaging resources, affects prenatal diagnostic pathways, and has implications for maternal-fetal medicine, radiology capacity, and payer coverage policies.
Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find an overview of clinical context for fetal MRI, common billing considerations, and typical sites of service. The publication summarizes available benchmarks and policy developments affecting coverage and utilization, highlights coding nuances for multiple gestations, and outlines the clinical scenarios in which fetal MRI is commonly deployed. Data not available in the input for specific associated taxonomies, ICD-10 diagnoses, related codes, and service-line cost benchmarks are noted as not provided.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 74713 describes fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This service uses magnetic fields and radio waves converted by a computer to produce three-dimensional images that examine the unborn baby from multiple angles to identify developmental abnormalities. The procedure may include imaging of the placenta and the maternal pelvis.
Service Type: Diagnostic imaging — fetal MRI
Typical Site of Service: Hospital outpatient imaging center or inpatient radiology suite
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A pregnant patient in the late second or third trimester is referred for 74713 fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after ultrasound findings suggest a complex fetal central nervous system anomaly. Typical presentation includes abnormal or inconclusive ultrasound (for example, ventriculomegaly, suspected cortical malformation, posterior fossa abnormality, or congenital diaphragmatic hernia) or when detailed evaluation of the placenta and fetal anatomy is needed for counseling and perinatal planning. The referral is commonly generated by a maternal-fetal medicine specialist or obstetrician.
Workflow: The maternal-fetal medicine clinic schedules the MRI at an outpatient imaging center or hospital radiology department. Pre-procedure screening confirms gestational age, placenta location, and absence of contraindications (e.g., certain implanted devices). The radiology team obtains informed consent, performs fetal-specific MRI sequences without ionizing radiation, and may image the placenta and maternal pelvis as clinically indicated. A radiologist with fetal imaging expertise interprets images and issues a structured report to the referring provider. If multiple gestations are present, 74713 is reported for each additional gestation after the first as appropriate.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
26 |